Nigeria striker Victor Boniface has been ruled out of Bayer Leverkusen’s first match of the year against Borussia Dortmund on January 10, 2025, following a setback in his rehabilitation process. The striker, who has been sidelined since November 2024 due to a thigh injury, will miss the club’s next two matches, including the game against Mainz on January 14.
Injury and Rehabilitation Update
Boniface had made a strong start to the 2024-2025 season, contributing 8 goals and 1 assist in 15 appearances. However, since suffering the injury in November, he has missed the club’s last nine matches. Despite appearing to be on the mend recently, Boniface will have to wait longer before making his return to action.
Bayer Leverkusen confirmed that his return to the pitch has been delayed due to a minor setback during his rehabilitation phase. The news was first reported by Sky Sports News correspondent Marlon Irlbacher and later shared by WerkselfXtra, a Leverkusen-centered blog.
Manager’s Comments on Boniface and Schick Competition
Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has spoken about the competition between Boniface and fellow striker Patrik Schick. While Boniface remains sidelined, Alonso emphasized the importance of having both players fit and competitive for the team.
Alonso told Germany-based Nigerian journalist Oma Akatugba, “What we want is that everyone is fighting for a position to get better and help the team. We’ll have so many games, and all the players will have their moments. But the most important thing is that in the same way Patrik Schick is in good form, we want Boniface in good form as well. We want him fully fit so that he forgets his injuries and is working hard on the pitch, scoring goals.”
Alonso also highlighted that the competition between Boniface and Schick for starting positions will depend on who proves themselves most deserving of the role when both are fit.
Boniface’s Impressive Start to Life at Leverkusen
Since joining Leverkusen from Royale Union SG in 2024, Boniface has made an immediate impact. In his first season with the club, he ended the campaign with 21 goals and 10 assists in 34 appearances. The 24-year-old’s strong performances have made him a key figure for Leverkusen, and fans are eager for his return to the starting lineup once he regains full fitness.
